Port Antonio
Situated on Jamaica’s north shore with spectacular views of the Caribbean’s turquoise waters, Port Antonio enjoys a well-deserved reputation as a coveted honeymoon oasis. The city is among the largest ports in the country and has been one of Jamaica’s premiere tourist destinations since American travelers began seeking it out in the late 19th century. Despite its popularity, Port Antonio cherishes its quiet nature, with endless expanses of white sands serving as a paradisaical setting for rest and relaxation. Basking in the glory of the Jamaican sun, you’ll be inspired by views of Navy Island and Monkey Island, the latter being situated in water so shallow that it can often be walked to in low tide.
Port Antonio is certainly in a class above when it comes to tropical paradises, though it is further elevated by its direct access to adventure destinations. One-of-a-kind experiences are always waiting to be savored at natural treasures like Reach Falls, where you can enjoy a guided tour on Driver’s River, or the Rio Grande, which offers daily rafting tours along Jamaica’s beloved river. Take a guided hike of the Blue Ridge Mountains, where you’ll enjoy a dense natural setting teeming with life before its peak reveals one of the most gorgeous vistas in the country. For an outdoor experience that you’ll savor for a lifetime, be sure to swim in the crystal-clear waters at the hidden Blue Lagoon.
The heartbeat of Jamaica is perhaps best felt through its arts and cuisine, both of which are in abundant supply in Port Antonio. Live music is a staple of the region, as are arts and crafts destinations like the Musgrave Craft Market in the downtown area. Esteemed restaurants serving delectable dishes can be found throughout the city, and you’ll definitely want to make the short trip to Boston to enjoy succulent jerk pork at the birthplace of jerk cuisine.
Finding a place to stay is a breeze as well thanks to a plethora of renowned resorts and hotels that cater to every price range and honeymoon length. Whether you’re looking for an all-inclusive resort or a cozy boutique hotel, your stay can be customized based on any preference.
As you take in the rich vistas afforded by an undisturbed pureness, it will be abundantly clear why Hollywood producers regularly select the city for stunning tropical films. Comedy favorites like Cocktail and Club Paradise have utilized the beauty of the city for memorable scenes, and the destination is highly sought-after by photographers; both professionals and casual honeymooners looking for the perfect shot to encapsulate heaven.
And heaven it is. For a destination honeymoon that is bursting with passion and culture, look no further than Port Antonio.
The 1 Best Honeymoon Resorts in Port Antonio
Frenchman’s Cove Resort
The secluded beachfront cottages at Frenchman’s Cove Resort give couples their own private piece of Jamaica to call their own. Surrounding by the lush jungle, white sand and sparkling blue Caribbean sea, Frenchman’s Cove has it all: seclusion, convenience, luxury, tons to see and do, and one of the Caribbean’s…
About Port Antonio
At a Glance
- One of Jamaica’s most celebrated natural wonders is the Blue Lagoon, located just seven miles east of Port Antonio. The rich turquoise waters have given the lagoon a reputation for being endless, and the unrivaled experience is certainly worthy of being included on a bucket list. Be sure to book a rafting or boating tour to make the most of the adventure.
- The home of jerk cuisine is in Boston, which is less than 10 miles to the east of Downtown Port Antonio. You won’t find juicier jerk pork anywhere in the world than at The Boston Jerk Center.
- Port Antonio is a renowned hub of arts and culture in Jamaica, with the Craft Village and the Musgrave Craft Market offering a rich selection of handmade crafts and unique souvenirs.
- Silver screen legend Errol Flynn, known predominately for portraying Robin Hood in 1938’s The Adventures of Robin Hood, was so enamored with Port Antonio that he utilized the 64-acre Navy Island as a private spot for Hollywood parties. The Errol Flynn Marina was named in his honor and still affords glorious ocean views to this day.
- Jamaican Blue Mountain Coffee is one of the world’s most prestigious coffee brands, and its name comes from the awe-inspiring Blue Mountains right outside of Port Antonio. Guided tours are available daily to lead you to the 7,200-foot peak, and though it requires some hiking stamina, the breathtaking view is deserving of the effort.
- The rich history of the city dates back hundreds of years, and its popularity grew exponentially with the terrific expansion of the banana trade in the 19th century and the arrival of Hollywood stars in the 1940s. The 1.5-mile Port Antonio Walking Tour will take you to all of the area’s iconic landmarks, culminating with the historic Folly Point Lighthouse.
Honeymoon Hints
- The Rio Grande Rafting Tour is one not to be missed. An experienced raft captain will take you on a 2 to 3-hour journey along one of Jamaica’s largest rivers, and as each raft holds a maximum of 2 adults (and one small child), it’s the perfect romantic experience for honeymooning couples. Don’t forget sunscreen and a waterproof phone case!
- Look no further than Frenchman’s Cove Resort for the most iconic beach location in the region. The resort features sensational views of the Caribbean and the nearby Blue Mountains.
- For mouthwatering fruits and vegetables straight from the source, be sure to visit the Musgrave Market, which is the area’s premiere produce market.
- Nestled among the lush greenery of the John Crow Mountains, Reach Falls is one of the area’s most splendid locations for a romantic photo opportunity. If you take the guided tour up Driver’s River, you’ll even be able to visit the underwater cave that has to be seen to be believed.
- The Folly Mansion was a sight to behold when it was constructed in the early 20th century, but it’s perhaps even more famous now as the Folly Ruins. The remnants of Alfred Mitchell and Annie Tiffany’s home have been standing for a century and are a must-visit.
Travel Tips
- GETTING THERE: Honeymooners traveling to Port Antonio have the option of flying into either Norman Manley International Airport in Kingston or Donald Sangster Airport in Montego Bay. Norman Manley International Airport tends to be the preferred airport for visitors of Jamaica’s northern coast as it is larger and generally has more incoming and departing flights. After arriving at either airport, the preferred method of traveling the two-or-so-hours to Port Antonio is via a rental car that can be acquired at the airport (note: you must be 25 years old to rent a car in Jamaica), though taxis and buses are also an option.
- GETTING AROUND: Port Antonio is definitely one of Jamaica’s cozier destinations, though arranging for a rental car is the best way to both travel to Port Antonio and experience all the city has to offer once you arrive. Downtown Port Antonio and many of the city’s landmarks are particularly pedestrian-friendly, and there are plenty of cabs if needed for shorter trips.
- WHEN TO GO: The winter months are peak travel season in Jamaica due to the mild nature of the weather, though temperatures throughout the country remain remarkably steady throughout the year. Some of the best travel deals can be found during the summer months, but be sure to keep hurricane season (June through November with a peak in August and September) in mind when making plans. Regardless of the season you choose to travel, you’ll be able to enjoy the region’s picturesque beaches, magnificent waterfalls, and boundless outdoor activities.
- WEATHER: Port Antonio, like all of Jamaica, enjoys some of the most beautiful weather in the Caribbean. Expect temperatures in the 70s or low-80s in January and mid-80s in July with little variation. The region averages at least 225 hours of sunshine each month and receives a majority of its precipitation during hurricane season.